The Finesse GameBig, tough and skilled, Rasmussen is the type of forward the Sabres have been waiting for. If both he and Vaclav Varada make the team this season, Buffalo will no longer be known as a one-man goalie band. Rasmussen doesn't have great hands, but he has good ones to complement a scoring instinct and a desire to drive to the net. He usually looks to make a play first, and the Sabres will try to encourage him to make better use of his wrist shot. He also has a hard slap shot. Rasmussen is a strong skater with a long stride. He has good balance and agility and is tough to knock off his feet. He needs to learn to play a full 60 minutes and not take any shifts off.

The Physical GameRasmussen is abrasive and annoying to play against. He isn't huge, but he is strong and willing to throw his weight around and get in people's faces. He competes hard and will lead by example.

The IntangiblesRasmussen's progress encouraged the Sabres to trade Brad May. Rasmussen is a centre, but could easily break in as a left wing. He could start the season in the minors but, if he does, don't expect him to finish there. He got a taste of the NHL last season that will help him adapt this year. He is not a finished player, but he's an interesting project.